Soil Pipe Explained

What are soil pipes?

Soil pipes transport the waste water/sewage from your toilet or sink to a soil drain or sewer. They are located vertically from the underground drainage system to your roof gutter. Soil pipes differ to other plumb pipes, this is because they have specific larger dimensions and are vented to prevent odors.

What are soil pipes made of?

Previously made with cast iron, soil pipes were sustainable to rust. Now made from PVC (a plastic), soil pipes are strong, flexible, durable and lightweight. PVC pipes are also known for being a lot more cost effective than coper pipes.

How do soil pipes differ from waste pipes?

Waste pipes are constructed based upon smaller dimensions. This is because, they do not carry solid waste, unlike soil pipes. Waste pipes carry water from your sinks, washing machines, baths and showers. Waste pipes do not require the same venting system as soil pipes. This is because within soil pipe plumbing, oxygen is required to enter to remove gases and prevent anaerobic decomposition. Soil pipes vented system also ensures that the systems atmospheric pressure remains when your toilet is flushed or your sink is emptied. To further prevent nasty gases escaping, we also supply a variety of waste traps.

How to spot a blocked soil pipe

A slow draining toilet and an unpleasant smell coming from your drainage system are the main signs of a blocked soil pipe. If the blockage is considered serious, we recommend you contact a specialist to resolve the matter. Please feel free to either call us on 01933 224100, send us an email – sales@plumbco.co.uk or come and visit us at our Wellingborough or Northampton Branch.

At Plumbco-online, we are proud to be one of the many Polypipe stockists: https://plumbco-online.co.uk/polypipe-soil. From quality soil pipes and fittings, to a sturdy drainage pipe connector. All items make for easy installation and trouble-free action.